Two girls eye the same dress. Their eyes meet. Before a word is spoken, both are running at full sprint, hands outstretched, each hoping she will land the coveted garment. You’ve seen this played out in movies, or maybe it’s happened to you in real life. This scene is crazy to the objective observer, but any shopaholic knows that the art of shopping entails a little bit of sport. Competitors are clad in high heels and the challenges can get tense (“They’re out of my size?!”). Ultimately, the winner is crowned with the outfit she set out to buy at the beginning of the day.

Here at ALIVE, we fully embrace the Fashion Games as we start a new Style Challenge for two of our editorial interns, Ruth Lee and Mary Poppell. Each month, these ladies will have to recreate an outfit of ALIVE’s Fashion Editor Jill’s choosing. They will search local stores high and low and take pictures of their findings. At the end of the allotted time, Jill will judge which outfit reigns supreme and declare a winner.

All is fair in love and fashion. Let the games begin!

The Challenge

Jill Manoff: This challenge focuses on two of my favorite things: celebrity style and the thrill of the hunt! I pick a pic of a celeb working an of-the-moment ensemble, then two superstars from the ALIVE Street Team recreate the look by shopping local stores. The shopper that best copycats the inspiration look wins my vote—and, of course, bragging rights.

For Showdown #1, I chose an image of ever-chic Jessica Alba in an outfit that combines several hot-for-spring trends—including a nautical blouse, flared denim and wedge sandals.

The Shopping

Mary Poppell: The biggest challenge of shopping for Jessica Alba’s casual/chic look was refraining from purchasing the fabulous finds for myself. Being a beggarly college student, the funds I could have used to buy those tortoise shell House of Harlow shades were unfortunately spent last weekend at Bar Louie in Central West End. Despite my financial grievances, they allowed me to shop at more economic stores in search of the stylish. While the mall has blemishes of its own (generic styles, crowds, insubstantial parking), it also offers stylish looks at lower costs.

My personal weaknesses are shoes and sunglasses, so I have to admit I paid more attention to these two items than to the rest of the pieces. First I’ll start with the shoes. Nothing makes a statement quite like a pair of tall, cork wedges with strap and gold detail (H by Halston wedges, $115). Pair them with colorful jeans, short or long dresses, jean shorts (anything, really) and you are sure to make a lasting impression on just about anyone.

Luxury sunglasses were the next priority on my “celebrity look” list. Who doesn’t love a great, staple pair of Marc Jacobs or Chanel sunglasses? My new favorite: the pair of House of Harlow shades I spotted on my Friday afternoon adventures at Nordstrom. For luxury specs, they weren’t as expensive as I initially thought (only $125), and the trend is definitely in.

Finally, the stripe patterned shirt, flare jeans, and brown satchel bags are items I knew I could find cheap at certain local stores. H&M is a great place to stop for basics because you can dress just about any outfit piece up with accessories. And despite the connotations associated with Nordstrom, their BP section carries fashionable looks at affordable costs. My conviction has always been to use that extra cash on statement pieces, like shoes and sunglasses, and allot the rest to the basics.

Ruth Lee: My first objective when I set out on this shopping challenge was to find the nautical top and flare jeans, which I knew would serve as the foundation from which to build the rest of the Jessica Alba-inspired outfit. As I searched through the offerings at Ivy Hill, I had a choice between dark or light-colored flares, and within thirty seconds I knew I was picking the latter. To me, the light-colored flares from Free People, in all its distressed glory, had a more ’70s-esque, bell-bottoms look which I thought fit better for spring/summer.

This proved to be the perfect counter-punch for the darker nautical top I found. The stripes on this Tulle blazer were thinner than those found on most nautical tops, so I knew I wanted bigger, bolder bangles—wider stripes, if you will. I chose two floral AK bangles from Ivy Hill not only for this reason, but because I loved the idea of contrasting a nautical look, which can be androgynous, with something uber-girly like flowers.

I next stopped at Mary Jane’s in the Central West End and found the perfect sunglasses to add to my look—the tortoiseshell frames by Joia matched one the bangles perfectly! What’s more, it provided another contrasting print (if you couldn’t tell, I’m a huge fan of mixing looks).

Feeling the need for an injection of color, I made up my mind that I would find colored shoes, and I found exactly that at Bakers Shoes with these purple suede wedges. All I needed now was a classic satchel to round out my outfit, and though I contemplated a colored bag, I decided that this Francesca’s Collections black satchel would be the perfect dark element to ground the whole look.

The Winner:

Jill Manoff: Mary! While Ruth put her own (fab!) spin on the outfit, Mary remained focused on the styles chosen by Alba (or her stylist!)–and her efforts resulted in a spot-on look. Nice!

Agree? Disagree? Leave a comment below to cast your vote for “Reader’s Choice” award.

(Jessica Alba photo via peoplestylewatch.com. Product photos by Ruth Lee and Mary Poppell.)

As ALIVE’s longtime Fashion Editor, I’ve earned a reputation as one who is in-the-know on the fashion front. Local designers spoil me with sneak-peeks of their upcoming collections; I get to preview stores before they open (thank you, Nordstrom); and boutique owners give me the scoop on what they saw at the various buying markets, and when their most exciting shipments will arrive. Let’s just say STL’s many style sources have never been shy about sharing news with me—and it’s high time I start sharing the love.

Now, ALIVE’s fashion-happy readers can receive the StyleList e-newsletter from me each Thursday. Sign up now, and you’ll be added to our exclusive list—which will provide you with insider access to the who, what, when and where of the city’s style-studded must-sees. If it’s happening in fashion, I’ll make sure you know about it—because friends shouldn’t keep secrets and they should always share good fashion finds.

Paperdolls Boutique in Kirkwood

Sure, summer is the season for barbecues and pool parties, but if you’re a shopaholic, you know it’s also the season for sidewalk sales. This weekend, you’ve got two chances to cash in on some great finds, starting with the Annual Tent Sale at Marta’s Boutique in Ellisville. The longtime family-owned boutique will have more than 6,000 pieces for up to 80 percent off, starting Friday, July 15 (7:30am-7:00pm) through Saturday, July 16 (10am-4pm). You can also get an early preview on Friday morning from 7:30am-9am for a $10 donation, which will go toward victims of the Joplin tornado.

Save your energy for a second stop at Paperdolls boutique in Kirkwood on Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The GIANT sidewalk sale is offering everything from tops, dresses, skirts and accessories at 80 percent off! The sale will be filled with unique brands and accessories (don’t miss the collection of sassy summer dresses). With items starting at just $5, you’ll be sure to walk away with some perfect summer finds. The sale is cash only, so grab your wallet and hit the sidewalk.

- Post by Alexis Zotos

From Jet Set to City Dressing to Life’s a Red Carpet, you can chose from different styling occasions and submit your customized outfits (trust me, it’s a blast!). Then, in your most convincing Rachel Zoe impression, describe your outfit using the stylist’s unique way with words (Can you say, “Mah-jor drama?”).

The collection features many of Zoe’s signature touches like fur vests, bohemian maxi dresses and military inspired jackets. Virtual designers can even accessorize their outfits with the collection’s handbags and shoes. While putting the looks together, it’s hard to resist clicking the BUY button, which allows you to pre-order any of the pieces from the line!

And a challenge isn’t complete without a grand prize. The lucky winner will receive a $2,500 gift card and a private meeting with Zoe herself as well as Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing. (Wow!)

Labeled “(untitled)”, it’s unclear as to whether I should refer to it as such (“Untitled”), or instead call it “The Fragrance by Maison Martin Margiela”—or something similar that seems less-Prince-inspired. Either way, “The Fragrance” (works for me…) is now available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue, and is perfectly freakish—kind of like a mix between men’s cologne (which I typically prefer to women’s perfume, just as I like men’s watches over women’s) and fresh-cut grass, but light. According to the experts, it’s a combination of sweet jasmine, musky cedar and elements that evoke “a huge armful of plants harvested just after the rain”. Odd, maybe—but, as I have been squirting my sample daily since I received it last week, it clearly makes sense to me…

Image via saksfifthavenue.com

Image via tfa50s.com

JM: How would you describe your designs’ aesthetic?

LKP: My aesthetic has always been pin-up-inspired, because I think the pin-up got it right. Have you ever seen a pin-up silhouette you didn’t like?? But, this is just the beginning of what makes LK. I have become more engrossed in the manipulation of fabric and tailoring techniques. The fabric choice is essential to a fashionable garment, and you should be able to turn it inside-out and it still looks beautiful. I like mixing this all with modern elements to make the LK brand.

JM: Who is your customer?

LKP: The LK lady knows quality and wants quality. She will sacrifice and save for an item she wants. My girl knows that she is beautiful, and asks all to join in on the celebration. She doesn’t judge, and asks not to be judged. My girl is ALL glam, but has that little edge of rock.

JM: Where did you train?

LKP: I began my education in design and construction right at home when I was 8. My mom taught me, and I was very lucky to be exposed at a young age. From this, I knew I wanted to major in design. For various reasons, I decided to get a bachelors degree in Design, Merchandising and Textiles from Western Kentucky University. I also wanted a taste of design school, so I spent a semester studying at Accademia Italiana in Florence, Italy.

JM: I know we talked about 2011 being a pause/plan/regroup year for your line. Talk about what that means, and what you’re up to this year.

LKP: I keep telling everyone, “Ask me that question in a year, and you will receive a much clearer answer!” When you’re in the midst of it all, it seems overwhelming! I am looking at options to take my company somewhere that can help with management and strategy. This will allow for a larger production plan, and—essentially—put me on the path that will help my company grow further outside of St. Louis. Things are in the works…

JM: Where do you see your line in 5 years?

LKP: Hopefully, LK is thriving and being sold in select areas around the United States. The systems and plans I am putting in place now are supposed to set the company up to prosper. I do a lot of custom in the area, and would like to keep that part of my business, but get back to being a ready-to-wear company.

JM: What is your ultimate dream for your line?

LKP: Put in the most simple terms, to have a ready-to-wear fashion house in St. Louis that can continue after I’m gone. It would be awesome to think that, one day, I could present at the couture shows in Paris—even though only one American designer has ever been invited… Gotta dream big to get big! If you don’t push yourself to what seems unimaginable, then nothing unimaginable will happen.

JM: Talk about St. Louis as your base of operations. You plan on staying here, yes?

LKP: For a designer, St. Louis poses a lot more challenges than NYC or Cali. However, if you are willing to travel and connect with the sources you need, then you can’t beat what you save in overhead! A lot of people ask if I feel less inspired because I live in the Midwest; I don’t need to see what people are already wearing to feel inspired, I need to be predicting what people will be wearing. This is something that comes from within. I’m staying in STL. I’m a native, and the city has been good to me. I’m hoping LK will grow, and give back by creating job opportunities.

JM: Talk about St. Louis’ fashion community. You’re so “in there”; how can others get involved?

LKP: When I decided St. Louis was where I was going to establish my business, I threw myself out there. I called fashion editors, got involved with ALIVE and Saint Louis Fashion Week. I went to social outings and looked at it as a business networking event. I understood the sweat equity I needed to put in. I still have way more to go! By making an effort to know people and get people to know me, I have made great connections and friends. There is a talented community of designers here. Anyone who is trying to “break” into fashion shouldn’t spend all their time in the studio sewing and staying within the comforts of who they know. If there is an event, get there and make sure people know who you are.

JM: How would you describe your personal style?

LKP: My personal style is very reflective of my brand. Anything I design, I can see myself wearing it. Most people call me “glam”. I love heels. I wear anything that is gold. My loft looks like Marilyn Monroe would live in it. Black, cream and gold vintage furniture. Lots of velvet, glass and feathers. I also like to imitate Marilyn; my hair is VERY blonde, and it is because of her!

JM: What designers inspire you?

LKP: Lately Akris, Balenciaga, Badgley Mischka,…there are so many to admire and respect. I’ve always loved Salvatore Ferragamo—not because of the aesthetic, but the story of how he began his business and created this family-run empire is moving. I cried my eyes out at his museum in Florence, Italy. The locals thought I was crazy…everyone probably thought I was crazy!

JM: I definitely think of you as a strong woman with a smart business sense. Am I right? Where did you get your mad drive? Discuss…

LKP: I’m loving the way you phrased that. Thank you! My mom describes me as tenacious. Again, I was lucky to have my parents. They created an environment that allowed my brother and I to find what we wanted to do at an early age. Creativity was encouraged and my mom has always been big on developing one’s spirit. Being in touch with your spirit makes your path clearer. I was also born very competitive, which feeds my drive. It’s definitely a downfall in some areas of life. I’m very hard on myself, and this is something I am working on. I’m trying to take time to appreciate what I have done so far, but my first reaction is, “Who cares, keep moving,… What else can you do now??”

Photos by Marcie Cobbaert, courtesy of Laura Kathleen Planck.
Models: Rose and Sarah Bippen
Makeup + Hair by Sarah Richards

For the entire nine months, each somehow managed to remain on-trend and super-chic. Impressed, I made it my mission to get their secrets to a stylish pregnancy…

(Left to right: Pat & Sarah Garlich, courtesy of Sarah Garlich; Hudson Keith Darnell, courtesy of Anna Strope Darnell)

Hillary Dutcher
Owner; Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004

Boy, Girl or Surprise: Surprise!
Due Date: June 18.
Mom-to-Be Style Icon: Kate Hudson; I love her casual, effortless style.
Best for Maternity Clothes: To be honest, I’ve been wearing mostly Ivy Hill duds, especially since many of Spring/Summer’s loose cotton dresses and other styles lend themselves to maternity! I’ve also gotten a few staples at GapMaternity, like skinny black pants and ribbed tanks.
Best for Baby Clothes: I love City Sprouts [in The Loop].
Words of Wisdom for Moms-to-Be: Yikes! I’m not sure I’m qualified to answer that yet, as I will be learning things by the minute once the baby is born!

Susan Luina
Owner; Susan Lynn’s*, Town & Country (*closed on April 20, after 8 years in business)

Boy, Girl or Surprise:  Our 3rd surprise (current kids are 6 and 4).
Due Date: July 5.
Mom-to-Be Style Icon:  For expecting mom, I’d go with Kate Hudson. Current mom, the one and only Reese Witherspoon.
Best for Maternity Clothes:  9 Months in Style.
Best for Baby Clothes:  For girl, Petunia [in Clayton]; for boy, Gap.
Words of Wisdom for Moms-to-Be:  It just keeps getting better and better. In the beginning, you think this is how it’s always going to be—sleep deprived, and boring at times—but then you blink, and they’re in school and becoming independent, intelligent little people. I find myself saying, “Now THIS is my favorite age!” at every single age and every phase they enter.

Sarah Garlich*
Owner; Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080

*Interviewed on April 27; on April 30, Patrick Samuel Garlich Jr. (it’s a boy!) was born.
Name: If boy, Patrick Samuel Garlich Jr.; if a girl, Grayson Kathleen Garlich.
Boy, Girl or Surprise: Surprise.
Due Date: I am past due! Due date was April 24; I’m getting induced next week.
Mom-to-Be Style Icon:  I love Nichole Ritchie’s style; her clothes are hippie-chic, and so cute and wearable.
Best for Maternity Clothes: I haven’t worn maternity clothes, except jeans; J Brand Mama J jeans have been the best for me.
Best for Baby Clothes: Verde Kids is a great new children’s boutique in Webster I am loving, and City Sprouts. It’s hard when you don’t know the sex; buying neutral isn’t easy! Thankfully, both stores carry items that aren’t just GREEN or YELLOW!!!
Words of Wisdom for Moms-to-Be: Since I haven’t had my little one, I’m not that sure I can provide good insight quite yet. But, I’d say to take it all in and enjoy it, because I’ve heard it’s the most amazing experience—and I can’t wait to go through it!

Anna Strope Darnell
Co-Owner; Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110

Boy, Girl or Surprise: BOY! Hudson Keith Darnell.
Birth Date: March 31, at 1:54pm (8lbs. 7 oz., 22.5 in.).
Mom-to-Be Style Icon: I love Heidi Klum and Jessica Alba. I also love Gwen Stefani because she is so edgy!
Best for Maternity Clothes: I loved my Joes maternity jeans, and—because of the oversized styles last winter—I was able to wear a lot of clothes from Klutch, which is always my fave!
Best for Baby Clothes: Puddle Ducks in The Meadows has really cute things! I also shop on zulily.com and Etsy, and you cant go wrong with babyGap!
Words of Wisdom for Moms-to-Be: Enjoy every moment, from the very beginning—because the time flies!!!

Composed of rare and vintage pieces from all over the world, each Sutton Lasater Jewelry piece is truly special—and on-trend; the fact that the designer knows what’s “now” is evident in her fashion-filled blog. While brides can order custom jewelry (made from Swarovski crystals and pearls, no less) for themselves and their bridesmaids on the site, enthusiasts of Sutton Lasater Fashion Jewelry can book rewards-earning jewelry parties to introduce the must-shop line to family and friends. As I’ve already chosen several favorites (including three pairs of earrings, pictured), we clearly need no introduction…

Images via suttonlasater.com

Image via Rung